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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Meredith Tibbetts

"I've worked with Michelle for almost a month, and she's been great. She's taught me to read music and is open to teaching me music that interests me."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Michelle L.

Review by Natasha.B

"I just recently had my first recital with all thanks to Jen Tyler. She is patient, encouraging and always does whats best for the student. She has taught

me so much and always motivates me to do better!"

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Jennifer T.

Review by David

"fabulous teacher

Dennis is a wonderful teacher. His extensive knowledge of all forms of music comes through in his teaching skills. He is extremely patie

nt and understanding as we work through pieces. I started taking classes as an adult in retirement, with past experience limited to a few chords learned way back in high school. We're now well into number of beautiful classical pieces, I've gained a significant knowledge of music theory, and we've just now starting to tackle the blues !!. I may have eclectic tastes, but Dennis feels very comfortable with it and loves teaching all types of music. I know I'm in the hands of a master musician and teacher."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Dennis B.

Review by Taylor

"This first lesson was very good. This was all about finding out what my daughter has learned thus far in playing her instrument. The instruction was ver

y clear and the location was easy to get to. She was even given exercises to practice at home for the next lesson. Over all, I am very pleased with this first lesson."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Wilma Evangeline B.

Review by Maria

"So far, so good. Ms.Diane is an extremely good and understanding teacher."

Washington, DC teacher:
Diane G.

Review by Mary Beth

"John is a great teacher—very patient with me as a beginner in the classical guitar. I highly recommend him as a teacher!"

Washington, DC teacher:
John B.

Review by Meme

"Can't say enough great things about Daniel. We are very experienced when it comes to music teachers, my daughter (9) has been learning Suzuki violin for 5

years with multiple teachers and last year she decided to also start taking Bass. Her lessons are both challenging yet inspiring at the same time- a combination that is hard to do. Daniel listens to the student and has a natural knack for knowing how to change up the lesson when needed while still focusing on building a solid foundation. He understands that playing an instrument also needs a growing appreciation for music/songs that the instrument can play and he continues to grow her repertoire of song styles far beyond the classical that she is used to. Most importantly she looks forward to her lessons and loves playing to songs she is learning."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Daniel B.

Review by Justin Lawrence

"I just had my first lesson with Michael. He was a friendly guy and a solid guitarist. We started to hone in on my goals and put together a plan; off to a

good start."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Michael K.

Review by Susan

"My granddaughter is making good progress and enjoys her lessons. The teacher is encouraging and low key. She has only had four lessons, but is doing ver

Popular Music Teachersnear Flint Hill

About Mike T.

About Mike

I have played bluegrass banjo since I was 16 (I am now looking at Social Security). I have been instructing for six years since semi-retiring from my day job. I use various teaching methods and aids and have participated in training programs with the finest banjo players in the country, including Sonny Osborne, Bill Emerson, Tony Trischka, Ned Luberecki, Pete Wernick, Jim Mills, Bill Evans, Charlie Cushman and Alan Munde.

My banjo philosophy is that while we may aspire to play banjo like Earl Scruggs, it is not necessary to be at that level to enjoy playing bluegrass music. The organic simplicity of bluegrass songs, the repetition of components, and the strong melody lines makes entry level playing fun and rewarding and within the reach of anyone who is willing to try.

When bluegrass musicians are jamming together, using

new skills, learning with and from each other, there's little chance they will give up playing music. I'd say they're hooked -- on bluegrass! More people spending less time in front of a TV, and more with each other. Wholesome fun. A bigger, thriving bluegrass community. A better world!

*** Lesson Details ***I believe that anyone learning bluegrass should first learn the chords to favorite easy songs, and a simple way of accompanying. Playing songs smoothly in real time while using a songbook (or a fellow picker) for the words, is easy, fun, and builds a rhythmic/chordal foundation and repertoire.

Easy jamming is highly recommended and will be part of the learning program. Good sounding rhythm techniques can be added easily as they are learned. Through this process, overall technique is expanded and the music sounds more interesting. Once we have the chords and rhythm, different types of soloing can be added. The easiest method is to "fake it" by just playing simple licks and rhythm techniques while following the chord changes. The next step up might be to play an exact tabbed (a form of written banjo music) basic solo, or (better) a self-composed one featuring melody. This phase is exciting to enter, and of course it creates motivation to really improve and master those solos we all want to play. Since all students come to bluegrass banjo with their own unique skills and experience - I will design a program just for you to ensure you reach you playing goals.

*** Travel Equipment ***Little equipment is required for bluegrass banjo other than the instrument.

*** Specialties ***5 string Bluegrass Banjo

...

Reviews

Christine November 10, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Very good at teaching technique as well as breaking songs down so they are easier to pick up.

Chris S. November 10, 2017·Banjo·In studio

I'm as new as they come; zero banjo experience. Mike was absolutely outstanding! In my first lesson he taught me how to tune, 3 major chords, strumming, picking, rolls, and I got my first song to practice. I highly recommend Mike!

Jay June 6, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Although it is but one lesson I have had with Mike, I know he has the ability to help me get to the "next level."I could not be happier with my selection of Mike as my instructor.

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Mike T.

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Mike T.

Manassas, VA 20109

(12)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Michelle P.

About Michelle

Instilling and nurturing a love of music and developing musicianship are why I’m a voice teacher. I earned my Master of Music Education degree in 2012 from Boston University, which has furthered my love of teaching and given me even more resources to draw from.

With all my students, I emphasize good technique. No matter what genre of music or age of student, singing in a healthful and fun way includes great posture, breath management, and producing a free and easy sound. I believe that each student has their own unique way of learning, so I tailor my lessons to fit. Students are both encouraged to sing music they're familiar with and to try something new. Immediate feedback and specific practice instructions help my students gain a sense of confidence and assess their progress. Last but not least, singing should be fun!

I'm a member

of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, The Voice Workshop, and the Loudoun Fairfax Music Fellowship.

...

Reviews

Will December 1, 2017·Musical Theater·In home

She is energetic, funny, and enthusiastic to work with her students. Our son had his first lesson tonight and enjoyed it very much,

Elise February 21, 2017·Classical Voice·In studio

I worked with Michelle for a little over 2 years. As an adult student, I was super nervous about singing in front of anyone - it took me this long to just sign up for lessons! She was patient with me and gave me lots of tools for dealing with my nerves and stage fright. Michelle helped me to choose songs that I not only wanted to sing but that matched my voice and range. I was hesitant about performing in a recital but Michelle pointed out that it was like training for a marathon - doing all the work but not performing just seemed silly. It wasn't perfect but it was definitely something I'm proud to have crossed off my bucket list.

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Michelle P.

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Michelle P.

Aldie, VA 20105

(2)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Joel M.

About Joel

I started playing recognizable melodies on the piano at 18 months old. At that time I was told that I even had perfect pitch. By age 5, my mother started giving me classical, gospel, and improvisational lessons. I was one of her 50 students until my senior year in high school. Through elementary, junior high, and high school, I received a lot of performance experience from school marching/concert bands, choirs, church choirs, piano concerts, band/choral conducting, and composing.

I received my BBA in Finance from the University of Texas at Arlington; through college and to the present, I have received over 25 years of performing/directing experience from overseeing two mega-church music ministries. At these ministries, I served as the department head, responsible for lead piano, directing, arranging, worship leading, and departmen

tal oversight.

I have produced 10 personal instrumental projects, and I have produced and recorded over 40 projects for other local, regional, and international artists. I currently travel with national, jazz, recording saxophonist, Joseph Vincelli, and my personal band Zamar. We have performed with a number of acts from Kirk Franklin, Darren Rahn, Kirk Whalum, Boney James, Fred Hammond, and many more.

As an instructor, I have been blessed with an ability to be relatable, relevant, musical, creative, fun, and engaging. I understand the language of music as a performer, and instructor, but most importantly, I value the ability to help the student find their own path of learning the joy of making music vocally and instrumentally. With over 18 years of private teaching experience and 30 years of group experience, I have gained a wealth of knowledge on how to be instructive and personal with the young or older beginner, intermediate and even advanced players. Let's grow together musically.

*** Lesson Details ***My teaching style is very laid back, although goal-oriented. We have fun while seeing progress. For piano, I typically use the Alfred Series "Alfred Basics 1 - 6" or the Adult All-in-One for the Older Beginner. In the first 3 - 6 months, one will become familiar with basis technics and concepts behind creating music. These concepts will be the foundation behind learning how to read music, play by ear, and create your own songs in any style.

We would move a little faster for the older beginner and work through the Alfred's All in One in conjunction with introducing my 5 steps to performance for any popular style. These steps have been very valuable for those that are wanting to play piano, guitar, bass, or even sing.

For vocalist, I work through Estelle Liebling, Vocal Course, Alfred Piano (as an instrumental reference) and a number of practical performance techniques that I have gained over the years to sing in more of a pop, jazz, gospel setting. We will work on performance techniques and develop the ear to gain confidence to perform in various popular settings. I will also introduce creative ways to make up original music using basic theory and ear training.

Reviews

Spencer July 11, 2017·Music Theory·In studio

Awesome teacher. Answers every question and explains all concepts thoroughly.

Haley May 9, 2017·Singing·In studio

Joel is not only an outstanding musician, he is also a great teacher! I had the pleasure of taking piano lessons from him and enjoyed every minute of it and learned a ton. His instruction was a wonderful supplement to what I learned at the University. His is very knowledgeable, competent technically and hilarious! In addition to everything he offers musically, he is one of the best people I've ever known. Thank you Joel, for sharing your gifts!

Denine L. April 21, 2014·Bass Guitar·

You will never find a better bass teacher

Joel is a great teacher. He has patience, keeps on track, gives good feedback, and knows all kinds of music. He has taught me bass, and vocals. I am a lead in my school musical and I owe it all to what he has taught me! I would recommend Joel for anyone who wants to learn about music. He is a very good, reliable, professional... all the stuff you look for in a teacher.

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Joel M.

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Joel M.

Online

(5)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Lola M.

About Lola

I have more than 30 years of musical experience. I’ve taught guitar, piano, bass, and theater in private schools, art schools and I’m currently teaching at Classic Axe Guitar Gallery in Gainesville, VA. I’ve taught over 250 students in all levels of experience, tailoring each lesson to fit each student, covering all genres, so that learning their instrument is fun. It’s been exciting to see some of them become music majors, some of them become performers, and some using their skills and gifts to teach others. I love teaching and sharing my musical knowledge with people of ALL ages. I believe anyone can learn music, with the right approach and encouragement. Nothing gives me more pleasure than watching my students accomplish more than they ever dreamed possible.

...

Reviews

Deserai February 16, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·Online

Lola was amazing and very personable :) she made me feel at ease on wanting to learn a new instrument

Jack January 4, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·Online

She is awesome!

Skylar December 29, 2017·Piano·Online

Fantastic first lesson - look forward to next week!

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Lola M.

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Lola M.

Front Royal, VA 22630

(10)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Randy M.

About Randy

I am an eclectic pianist and singer with dual Bachelor of Music degrees in Performance and Jazz Studies from Shenandoah Conservatory. My skills are diverse and I enjoy using them as I teach at any level. Other than teaching, I compete in voice and piano competitions, perform as a soloist and accompanist, arrange, and compose. I also play in a funk band called Souled Out, stationed in Winchester, VA. My passion is in classical and jazz music, as well as musical theatre, but I teach all contemporary styles.

...

Reviews

Gus June 21, 2017·Classical Piano·In studio

Mr. MC is an excellent instructor. He always takes into account students' background and interests in order to develop meaningful lessons. He explains and presents new music material clearly, and always models in order to facilitate learning. He also monitors progress continuously and provides feedback on students' performance. One of the best instructors I have had the pleasure to work with.

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Randy M.

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Randy M.

Winchester, VA 22601

(1)

starting at

$15
/ 30-min

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About Luc B.

About Luc

After drumming for almost 40 years, I feel like I've nearly done it all, having played played Rock, small and big group Jazz, Classic R&B/Soul, Fusion, Funk, Folk, Reggae/World Music, Top-40, Heavy Rock, Classic and Contemporary Country, Blues, Electronic, Theater, and Cinematic/Soundtrack music.

I was self-taught at first by listening and playing along with recordings, and then studied under Maine greats Dick Demers and Steve Grover, and attended the University of Maine-Augusta in the Jazz and Contemporary music program. During the past few years, I've also started to play the Chapman Stick, and I've increased the amount of hand percussion in his bag of tricks.My reputation in the Maine music scene is as a solid, first-rate musician, and throughout all of this, I've appeared on many recordings. I'm now the drummer in the 80’s part

y/dance band “The GE3KS” and in the original band “Goss”, with an Adult Contemporary/Alt Rock album currently being written and recorded, as well as hard rock originals with Jerry Perron, with an alum completed and slated for mastering at Abbey Road Studios over the summer and fall of 2017.

I've taught drum set in one-on-one settings since 1992, first at Spectrum Music in Lewiston and Brunswick, Maine, then at The Music Centre in Brunswick, and at The Drum Shop in Portland, as well as in my own home. I've also lectured at summer percussion camps, and authored a drum method book, "Beginning Drum Set Coordination," and published the first edition in 2004, with an updated second edition printed in 2016. In mid-2016, I re-joined the teaching staff at The Drum Shop, and shortly after joined the staff at The Midcoast School of Music, also in Portland.

Since November of 2016, I have been an artist endorser for Rich Sticks. Check them out; they make a fantastic quality product and they're a top-notch crew!

...

Reviews

Scott August 24, 2017·Drum·In studio

I've had the pleasure of working with Luc in many varied performance settings. He has also provided me with top-notch recorded drum tracks for several recording projects. Super versatile and always musical, Luc is my go-to guy for all things percussive.

Kacey August 15, 2017·Drum·In home

Luc is an incredible drum teacher. My son has been taking lessons from Luc and he truly enjoys each lesson. Luc is always professional, student focused, always on time and very flexible when working with us to arrange lessons. He listens to his students and encourages them to challenge themselves.

Jim August 7, 2017·Drum·In studio

I have been learning music and playing music with Luc for over 30 years. He is a true student of the art and a patient and confident teacher. His depth of understanding and passion for music go far beyond just his substantial drumming, vocal and Chapman Stick talents. He is able to engage in the technical minutiae and the broad philosophical aspects of all styles. Time spent with Luc in the musical space will move you forward!

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Luc B.

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Luc B.

Online

(6)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Megan B.

About Megan

I am a flute player, choral conductor and teacher with 12 years experience. I studied at Indiana University with students of Thomas Robertello, and have played in orchestras and ensembles in Boston and NYC, as well as Virginia. I have worked with and enjoy teaching students of all ages.

I approach my students from the standpoint of developing overall musicianship, in addition to the specific technique of the flute. This involves learning basic fingerings and breath technique, scales, and music reading; but also, very importantly, how to play music with lyricism and beauty, and how to be part of an ensemble.

For beginner and intermediate students, we will use the Rubank series of study books, along with scales, etudes, and solos. We will focus on learning to produce a beautiful sound, and how to treat the flute as an extension of the

singing voice.

I love finding ways for the student to master technique, solve problems, and most of all, develop as a musician.

...

Reviews

Frank August 2, 2017·Flute·

Megan is an excellent instructor. The ability to communicate complex musical ideas (or any musical idea) in a clear and enjoyable way is not common. Megan does this with apparent ease. I always look forward to my next opportunity to work with or learn from her.

Ema R. August 2, 2017··In home

Megan is a delight! I have worked with Megan on many different aspects of music, from music theory, to voice coaching, to following her baton as a conductor. She is extremely thoughtful and has a wonderful sense of musical expression. She is able to work with many different skill levels and has the patience of a saint! She wants to see her students improve and finds great joy in guiding them through the process of musical discovery and breakthroughs of all kinds.

Jennifer P. August 2, 2017··In home

I have worked with Megan over many years as a fellow colleague in music. With her students, she is patient, thoughtful and challenging. She treats each student as an individual and addresses what they need to succeed. As a musician, she has years of experience both in performing and conducting and therefore has a wealth of knowledge that she passionately imparts upon her students and colleagues.

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Megan B.

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Megan B.

Purcellville, VA 20132

(3)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Gwen B.

About Gwen

I am currently a second year graduate student at Shenandoah University. I am expected to earn my Master's in Music Performance with a concentration in Voice in May 2018. My Bachelor's in Music was obtained at Marywood University under the direction of Dr. Rick Hoffenberg (vocal coach) and Ellen Rutkowski (voice teacher) in 2015. Students that study with me can expect to learn the basics of singing including; correct posture, breathing, and to sing with expression. I also have performed in various areas in Northeast PA and central PA. I recently performed at the Crittenden Opera Workshop where I worked with various artists including Richard Crittenden, Elizabeth Vrenios, Dr. Lawrence Vincent, Joshua Lindsay, and Adrianna Hardy just to name a few. I also have my own Youtube channel and Facebook page with videos of my performances. I also ha

ve expertise in acting and a background in dance to help my students to better their expression onstage.

Gwen B.

Gwen B.

About Gina C.

About Gina

Hi aspiring banjo pickers! I am passionate about sharing my knowledge of the banjo with you. All students, all levels, all ages.

...

Reviews

Kim January 20, 2018·Banjo·Online

Edmund November 15, 2017·Banjo·In home

Gina has got that happy knack of teaching with insight into the hurdles one has to jump to get over, with patience and enthusiasm. She is a top class performer too I have just bought her CD "True Colors", what a voice and a poet too, don't miss it.
I can't wait for my next lessons with her.

Drew November 11, 2017·Banjo·Online

Gina was recommended to me as an excellent online banjo instructor and she has more than lived up to that reputation. I started taking online lessons with her a year ago from Europe and my progress with the banjo has sky-rocked faster than all the work I tried on my own with books. Gina's clear and patient instruction style makes learning easy, and her feedback on my progress inspires me to practice and be passionate about the banjo. Whether it's for banjo instruction in person or online, I highly recommend Gina!

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